Orland Park, IL (October 29, 2025) – The Orland Park Police Department is expanding its innovative use of technology and taking public safety to new heights with the official launch of its Drones as First Responders (DFR) program, a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to fight crime, respond faster to emergencies and keep the community safer than ever.

In partnership with BRINC, the Orland Park Police Department is deploying drones that can respond directly to 911 calls, often arriving on scene before officers. These state-of-the-art drones stream live aerial video, giving police crucial intelligence to better protect both residents and responding officers.

“This represents a major leap forward in how we respond to emergencies.,” said Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge. “It’s a game-changer for public safety and another example of Orland Park leading the way in innovative policing.”

The department recently hosted an open house to showcase the system to neighboring jurisdictions, school board officials and local media. The event featured a missing-person demonstration and a Q&A session with Chief of Police Eric Rossi and BRINC representatives.

While the Orland Park Police Department has utilized drones locally for years, they were typically dispatched only after incidents or during investigations. The DFR program flips that model, allowing drones to launch immediately when a call for service is received. With an average response time of just 70 seconds, drones can pursue suspects, help locate missing children, provide overwatch during large-scale incidents and even deliver life-saving equipment like AEDs.

“This new program strengthens our ability to fight crime and upholds our reputation as one of the most forward-thinking departments in Illinois.” said Chief of Police Eric Rossi.

The BRINC Responder system features advanced obstacle avoidance technology, a flight time of 42 minutes, speeds up to 45 miles per hour and the ability to operate within a 2-mile radius.  Equipped with built-in red/blue emergency lights, a two-way intercom system, and supports optional attachments such as a glass-breaking tool or parachute for emergency landings, the drones can be piloted by both on-site operators and remote operators.

Orland Park is uniquely positioned to lead this effort, with 117 sworn officers, including 21 FAA-certified drone pilots, making Orland Park one of the most drone-capable police departments in Illinois. The drone program is coordinated by a dedicated program leader and has already proven valuable, with drones deployed on 42 calls in 2023 as well as 23 calls in 2024.

This program is made possible by the DFR Act, passed in Illinois in 2023, which granted law enforcement new authority to use drones at the onset of emergencies.

“Public safety is or highest priority,” said Dodge. “By putting drones in the air faster than officers can arrive on foot or in vehicles, we are making Orland Park a safer and stronger community.”

To watch a simulation of the drone in action, click here.

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